Let me make a deal with you.

I’m going to share 10 things I’m thankful for in Columbia and Howard County.

In return, I ask that you share what you are thankful for in the comments sections.

So, here we go, in reverse order, like on Letterman. I’m thankful for….           

10) Ken Ulman’s Twitter feed. The county executive’s multiple updates, which are, he has told me, mostly from his very own keypad, are a must-read for anyone trying to get basic Howard County information (especially during a storm), or those who want deeper knowledge on what to celebrate about our slice of Maryland.

9) The carousel at the Mall in Columbia. I recently saw a grandpa pointing his camera phone at the carousel while a child and her mother rode around with huge grins on their faces. It’s not cheesy. It’s where people are almost exclusively happy.

8) Howard County General Hospital. It’s where I gave natural birth to my son one year ago. The staff was so kind, helpful and accommodating, and I kid you not, the cafeteria hamburgers were amazing.

7) Parks. The reason I'm still fit, despite having a job with a lot of screen-time, is the multitude of beautiful parks, including Centennial Lake, Wilde Lake and Lake Kittamaqundi.

6) Nearby downtown historic Ellicott City, and the toy shop Mumbles and Squeaks. Those people know their toys, which is crucial information I need.

5) The ‘And Then There’s That’ podcast. It’s hosted by attorney Paul Skalny and real estate agent and blogger Dennis Lane-- two funny and informed guys who can often be found hanging around cafes and restaurants by Lake Kittamaqundi. They give me story ideas.

4) The Columbia Bike Guy, Athar Khan. I met Khan in September and learned about his mental illness, and how he bikes and picks up trash in Columbia as a form of personal therapy.  He’s often smiling, and I admire his dedication to helping others—even amid his own struggles.

3) @MacsMom! You know who she is—Julia McCready, the relentlessly positive and encouraging presence in Columbia on Facebook and Twitter. At a Hocoblogs party last month, she said she ‘roots for me’--words I didn’t forget. Each day, I try to be more like Julia.

2) The Columbia Archives. Barbara Kellner, the director, has taken lots of time to educate me about Columbia, as I’ve only lived here for a year. She helped me develop a series of stories on Columbia’s past. She found me an amazing picture of a guy walking to work in the formerly barren landscape of the new Columbia.

1) Lakeside Café. This is my favorite coffee shop in Columbia. And the world. I love the owners, Min and Mike So. I love the view of Lake Kittamaqundi. I love the clientele. It’s my coffee shop-soul mate.

I could go on. But it's your turn now. Post below or share on Twitter under the hashtag, #DreamCitythanks